BSNL switches to next generation network technology

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State-owned telecom service provider Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has introduced Next Generation Network (NGN) technology in its fixed line telephony and plans to invest around Rs.1,000 crore in upgrading the time-division multiplexing (TDM) technology, a statement said on Friday.

NGN technology will provide both fixed line and broadband from same telephone exchange.

"At present, BSNL plans to convert 14 million telephone lines with NGN technology. This is expected to cover more than 80 percent urban customers and approximately 90 percent rural customers," the statement said.

"However, it is expected that entire fixed line customers will have NGN facility by December, 2017. Initially, BSNL plans to invest approximately Rs.1,000 crore in upgrading the TDM technology with NGN technology," it added.

The voice call on this new technology will be made available at the same rate at which the fixed telephone is made available by BSNL as on date. However, BSNL would like to charge something extra for video calls.

Introduction of this technology will help India to achieve Digital India & Make in India project, Communications and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said during the launch.